Jason Fleener

Wild rice season is set to begin in Northern Wisconsin. Manoomin, the traditional food of the Ojibwe nations, typically ripens around Labor Day. But harvesters may need extra patience this year.

Only three out of about 50 lakes regulated by state and tribal officials will open for ricing by this weekend. Manoomin biologist for the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission Lisa David says Wisconsin’s late spring delayed ripening in some areas.